I don’t think it was a trick question – but it is like asking how long is a piece of string.

I was able to go back and look at my records (because I’m a bit geeky like that) and, on average, the families who work with me are debt-free in 18 months or less. Most of those who have managed it are now on target to clear their mortgages in just another seven to eight years. Amazing.

Of course, these are families for whom the lightbulb moment not only happened but dazzled them with its brilliance. They are not going at this in a half-hearted way but are chasing down their debts as if their very lives depended on it.

They got to the point where they were sick and tired of working hard and having nothing to show for it. Sick and tired of relying on credit to get them out of scrapes. Sick and tired of no holidays with their kids and experiences as a family. Sick and tired of working jobs that are sucking the energy and fun out of their lives. Sick and tired of putting their dreams on hold.

They identified their needs and wants, then decided that, for a short time, they are going to focus on clearing their debts fast.

Let me ask you – how much money do you pay out every month in servicing your debts?

What kind of an amazing life could your family have if every penny of that was yours to spend on them as you chose? Makes you think.

Trimming your budget by a few quid and throwing that money at your smallest debt could clear it in a much shorter time than you think. With one debt gone forever, you have more money to throw at the next in line. Before you know it, you could be calling me up and telling me that you too are debt-free forever. I dare you.